A Review on Abiotic Stress Caused by Industrial Effluents on Seed Quality

India is one of the top ten industrialized countries of global importance. But industries release waste products, which exert negative influences by causing toxicity to biotic organisms and environment. Liquid wastes of industries termed as effluents are characterized with possession of organic and inorganic compounds that evolve with varying levels of toxicity based on the type of industry and its bi-product. Recycling of treated effluent serves as an alternative to tie over water scarcity in sustainable agriculture. On the other hand, dilutions of industrial effluents serves as growth stimulants at an optimal concentration and influences the seed and seedling quality characters and aids in improving the productivity of crops. The safe levels of dilutions expressing the seed invigourative effect are reviewed hereunder, which could serve as a solution for disposal of effluent in agriculture in an effective manner.

Comparison of the Effect of Transpalatal Arch on Periodontal Stress and Displacement of Molars When Subjected to Orthodontic Forces. A Finite Element Analysis.

Introduction: The transpalatal arch has been used successfully for decades during routine orthodontic treatment for various purposes, including reinforcing anchorage. In the light of current scientific advancements with more precise knowledge of biology of tooth movement, it is prudent to study whether transpalatal arch is effective in preserving anchorage. Objectives: The aim of this finite element study was to evaluate and compare the effects of the transpalatal arch on periodontal stresses of molars and displacements when subjected to orthodontic forces. Methods: Stress patterns and displacements between models with and without a transpalatal arch were investigated by means of 3-dimensional finite element analysis. A finite element model of the maxillary first molars, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and transpalatal arch was created, that consisted of 1, 69,036 elements and 29,518 nodes. A simulated orthodontic retraction force of 2N was applied to the maxillary first molar in a mesial direction. Resultant von mises stresses were evaluated and compared in models with and without transpalatal arch, as well as displacement in models with and without transpalatal arch. Results: Results suggested that the presence of a transpalatal arch has no effect on molar tipping, decreases molar rotations, and reduces periodontal von mises stress magnitudes by less than 1%. Conclusions: The presence of the transpalatal arch induces only minor changes in the dental and periodontal stress distribution. Alternative methods can be used where absolute anchorage is required however transpalatal arch should not be considered an unnecessary tool in the treatment of orthodontic patients because of its various functions.

Effects of Pleurotus ostreatus on Blood Pressure and Glycemic Status of Hypertensive Diabetic Male VolunteersS.

Different species of mushrooms are being used increasingly for their nutritional and medicinal values. They are used in traditional medical practice in the treatment and prevention of diabetes, obesity, heart diesaes, hyperacidity, cancer and hypertension. This study was designed to see the effects of Pleurotus ostreatus on blood pressure and glycemic status of hypertensive diabetic male volunteers. The study was carried out in the National Mushroom development and Extension Center (NAMDEC) laboratory, Savar, Dhaka in collaboration with the Department of Pharmacy along with the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jahangirnagar University. A total of 27 hypertensive male volunteers suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus with age range of 32 to 68 years, who were free from renal impairment and other known acute or chronic diseases were included in the study. Blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c and serum creatinine were measured before and after 3 months of regular intake of 3 grams mushroom powder capsule daily in in 3 divided doses. However they were allowed to continue the drugs they were taking already. The study showed that after 3 months of regular intake of Pleurotus ostreatus mushroom, both systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly (p<0.001). It was also observed that, Pleurotus ostreatus decreased fasting plasma glucose level significantly (p<0.001). Reduction of HbA1c % observed after 3 months of mushroom intake was found to be significant (p<0.001). But there was no significant change of plasma creatinine level (p>0.05) indicating Pleurotus ostreatus has no detrimental effect on renal system. From the study, it can be said that, Pleurotus ostreatus mushroom intake improves glycemic status and blood pressure control in diabetic hypertensive subjects.

Nutritional Profile of Some Tropical Fruits in Bangladesh: Specially Anti-Oxidant Vitamins and Minerals.

Objective: Fruits and vegetables are important for the daily diet as these contain micronutrients, fiber, potassium, folate, Vitamin C, vegetable proteins, carotenoids and polyphenols, which act as antioxidants within the body as well as bio-functional components. The aim of the study is to establish nutritional profile specially antioxidant vitamins and minerals of tropical fruits in Bangladesh. Methodology: Nutritional composition and physico-chemical properties, such as pH, titratable acidity, moisture, total soluble solid, crude fibre, total carbohydrate, total protein, total fat, total energy, vitamin C, beta-carotene, ash, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium content of ten tropical fruits namely Blackberry, Java apple, Jack fruit, Pineapple, Carambola (Star fruit), Golden apple, Mango, Melon, Monkey jack, Star gooseberry were determined according to standard methods. Results: Results of this study suggest that the tropical fruits of Bangladesh were excellent source of antioxidant vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, beta- carotene, iron, zinc, copper and manganese. These fruits were also good source of potassium, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium but poor source of protein and fat and sodium. Conclusion: Present study strongly suggests that star gooseberry, monkey jack, pineapple and golden apple were antioxidant vitamins and minerals enriched tropical fruits.

A Comparative Study Between Efficacy Of Esmolol And Lignocaine For Attenuating Haemodynamics Response Due To Laryngoscopy And Endotracheal Intubation.

Haemodynamic stability is an integral and essential goal of any anaesthetic management plan. Laryngoscopy and intubation can cause striking changes in haemodynamics. Increase in blood pressure and heart rate occurs most commonly from reflex sympathetic and vagal discharge in response to laryngotracheal stimulation, which in turn leads to increased plasma norepinephrine concentration. This study was designed to compare efficacy of esmolol and lignocaine for attenuating haemodynamics response due to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of Esmolol with that of Lignocaine to attenuate the detrimental rise in heart rate and blood pressure during laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation. One hundred and twenty adult patients randomized into group-L and group-E, were received lignocaine 1.5 mg/kg and Esmolol 1.5 mg/kg I.V. respectively. Heart rate and blood pressure in each minutes for the 10 minutes after intubation was recorded. Time span around intubation up to 4 minutes has been looked specifically to isolate the effect of the study drugs at the time of intubation. For statistical analysis Student's 't' test was used for comparing means of quantitative data and chi-square test was used for qualitative data. Difference was considered statistically significant if p<0.05. The mean heart rate, systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure, and rate-pressure product before starting anesthesia were similar in group-L (Lignocaine group) and in group-E (Esmolol group) (p>0.05). The mean values of heart rate, systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure, and rate-pressure product at 2, 3 and 4 minutes after intubation were significantly lower in group-E than group-L (p<0.05). In conclusion, esmolol 1.5 mg/kg is superior to lignocaine (1.5 mg/kg) for attenuation of haemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation.

Lipid Profile Status of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Hospitalized Patients.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum level of total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), low density lipoproteins (LDL) and high density lipoproteins, (HDL) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients admitted in National Institute of Disease of Chest and Hospital, Mohakhali, Dhaka during. January 2009 to January 2010. Twenty two patients with COPD and 22 healthy controls were included in this study. Total cholesterol, HDL and TG levels were determined with ILAB 1800 Chemistry Analyzer using ILAB test Reagents. LDL concentration was calculated using the Friedewald Equation. The mean level of TG was 150.04±29.66 mg/dl and 126.14±13.28 in COPD patients and healthy control, respectively. A statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (p<0.001). The mean level of TC was 181.83±20.11 mg/dl and 176.28±15.35 mg/dl in COPD patients and healthy control respectively (p<0.001). LDL level mean value was 116.12±14.26 mg/dl and 108.95±10.39 in COPD patients and control respectively (p<0.001). The mean value of HDL showed 38.79±2.4 in COPD patients and 39.014±1.56 in control. A statistically significance was also found between the two groups (p<0.001). Our results showed that the values of TC, TG, LDL were higher than healthy control that is highly significant statistically. On the other hand, the was significantly decreased HDL level compared with controls.

Study of Lipid Profile in Shift Workers.

Background: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the changes of serum lipid profile in apparently healthy shift workers and non shift workers to identify the possible high risk factors for developing atherosclerotic changes. Methods: Serum Total Cholesterol, Triglyceride, HDL-Cholesterol and LDL-Cholesterol levels were estimated and blood pressure was measured in apparently healthy adult shift worker and non shift worker participants. Total 60 subjects age ranged from 20-50 years were selected, of whom 30 were shift workers (Study) for at least one year and 30 were non shift workers (control). Height, weight and resting blood pressure of all the subjects were recorded before collection of blood. Blood samples were collected after over night fasting for estimation of serum lipid and lipoprotein levels and were measured by standard laboratory technique. Data were analyzed by unpaired ‘t’ test. Results: The mean serum Total Cholesterol and LDL-Cholesterol levels were significantly higher in shift workers compared to those of non shift workers. Again mean serum Triglyceride and HDL-Cholesterol levels in the shift workers did not differ significantly from that of non shift workers. These changes may be related to internal desynchronization due to disruption of circadian rhythm. Conclusion: The changes in serum lipid and lipoprotein levels with the exception of HDL-Cholesterol and Triglyceride in the subjects engaged in shift work may put them at increased risk for coronary artery disease.

Peak Expiratory flow Rate in Pregnat Women.

In the present study peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were estimated in pregnant women during different trimester to observe the alteration in air flow rate during pregnancy. This study was carried out in the department of Physiology of Dhaka Medical College from July 2004 to June 2005. For this purpose, total 100 women with age ranged from 25 years to 35 years without any recent history of respiratory diseases were selected and divided into 25 healthy non-pregnant women as control and 75 normal pregnant women as study group. Study group was further divided into 25 in first trimesters, 25 in second trimester and 25 in third trimesters of pregnancy. All the subjects belonged to lower socioeconomic class. The PEFR was estimated by using an automatic spirometer. The measured values and percentage of predicted values of PEFR were estimated during the 1st, 2nd, 3rd trimesters of pregnant women and non-pregnant women. Statistical analysis of data were done by un paired student’s “t” test. The PEFR was significantly lower in both 2nd and 3rd trimester pregnant women than that of nonpregnant women. Again the PEFR was significantly lower in 3rd trimester than that of 1st trimester of pregnant women. There were no statistically significant difference of PEFR between the non-pregnant and 1st trimester; between the 1st trimester and 2nd trimeste ; and between the 2nd trimester and 3rd trimester of pregnant women. It may be concluded that PEFR were progressively decreased throughout the pregnancy, most likely due to mechanical effects of progressively increased size of uterus that progressively decreases lung volumes and capacities.

Do all regularly menstruating women ovulate in each cycle?

Women may experience anovular menstruation due to some pathophysiological causes which can be detected either by invasive histological examination as well as noninvasive serial ultrasound test. The women who are regularly menstruating without ovulation in each cycle were identified in this study. In a tertiary level infertility care centre of Bangladesh in Dhaka infertile population was the subject of the study. The serial ultrasound noninvasive procedure is used for diagnosis of anovular menstruation and found very much helpful.

Factors affecting family size in rural Bangladesh.

This was a cross sectional study which was conducted to estimate the family size and to identify the factors influencing family size in rural areas of Bangladesh. Respondents of 150 households were interviewed through interview schedule and in-depth questionnaires. The size of the family was observed as 4.59 persons where nearly half of the respondents (48%) having less than five members. Age of the respondent, number of children, age of the first and last child, average monthly income, number of rooms in the house, persons living in the main dwelling houses, number of earning persons having audio-visual assets had statistically significant association with the size of the family and all were with higher percentage in big family. Middle-income group was more in the small and big family category (75% and 65.40% respectively). The higher income group was more common in big family than small one (23.10% and 8.30% respectively). There was significant association between family size & average monthly income (p < 0.05). Number of earning persons, housing type, number of rooms in the house and persons living in the main dwelling houses were also interdependent with average monthly income and proved to be a factor for family size determination. The study emphasises that family planning activities should be intensified with modification of educational programs in mass media to attract the rural population regarding family size.

Correlation of fine needle aspiration cytology and its histopathology in diagnosis of breast lumps.

This study was carried out to evaluate the accuracy of FNAC and the role of FNAC in palpable breast lumps for the early surgical management in out patient and inpatient basis. The study was carried out in Dhaka Medical College during the period of January-December, 2000. FNAC was performed on 310 patients presented with palpable breast lumps. Histopathology was available for 122 cases. Of them, cytologically diagnosed benign cases were 106, histologically 105 cases were proved so. There was false negative diagnosis in one case. All 14 cases diagnosed as malignant cytologically proved as such histologically. Two cases reported as suspicious for malignancy one of which were proved malignant histologically. False positive diagnosis was made in one case. FNAC of breast lump was found to be associated with increased diagnostic yields. It can be carried out safely as a preoperative diagnostic method in-patients with breast lumps mostly in out-patient department.

Prognostic factors analysis in a therapeutic trail of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).

It is common practice in therapeutic trials in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) to analyse the impact of prognostic factors on clinical outcome. In this study, 30 newly diagnosed ALL patients were enrolled and the median age was 14.5 years. 22 patients were male and 8 patients were female. Prognostic factors analysed include age, sex, lymphomatous presentations (bulky peripheral lymphadenopathy, mediastinal mass and enlargement of spleen and liver), initial leucocyte count, blast cell morphology and bone marrow response to chemotherapy. Remission induction and maintenance therapy with conventional combination chemotherapy and CNS prophylaxis with intra thecal methotrexate and radiotherapy were instituted to all patients for long term event free survival. Results of induction therapy and overall outcomes of treatment were observed. The impacts of analyzed prognostic factors on clinical outcomes were assessed. 3 patients (10%) failed to go into remission after 12 weeks of therapy. 27 patients (90%) obtained remission. Among 27 patients those obtained remission, 17 patients continued event (failure to remit, relapse and death) free survival, 7 patients suffered relapse of their leukaemia and 3 patients died during maintenance therapy. Events were observed more among patients age group > or = 20 yrs (84%), initial WBC count > or = 50 x 10(9)/L (58%) and FABL2 morphology (80%).

Evaluation of hospital diets in five hospitals at Dhaka city.

The study was undertaken to assess the prevalent situation of diets provide to different types of patients in five hospitals at Dhaka. Calorie content of foods supplied to the patients was about 50% of the calorie that was mentioned on diet menus for different hospitals. The patients intake of food supplied by the hospital was very low. Except BIRDEM, majority of the patients in other hospitals were not satisfied with different types of foods supplied to them by the hospitals. Calorie, carbohydrate, protein, vegetable fat, iron and calcium intake by the patients differ significantly (p = 0.03-0.001) in different hospitals. The hospital diet is imbalanced to met therapeutic need.

The transformation in vitro of peripheral lymphocytes of malnourished children.

Children with protein energy malnutrition showed high deranged cellular immunity as evidenced by impairment of lymphocyte transformation after stimulation by phytohaemagglutination (PHA). The proliferative response (PR) to PHA measured by estimating incorporation of tritiated thymidine into newly synthesized DNA. In-vitro proliferative response to PHA was used as a marker for studying the functional characteristics of T lymphocytes of children with different categories of malnutrition. PHA response of peripheral blood lymphocytes obtained from different categories of severely malnourished children were significantly low compared to healthy control children (P < 0.01). The results indicate that cell mediated immunity was grossly depressed in severe malnutrition.